This is a discussion on engine cleaning within the General Maintenance, Troubleshooting & Accidents. forums, part of the Tech & Modifying & General Repairs category; I'm planning on cleaning my engine soon, i was wondering if there are certain spots i should cover up before ...

I hear that the engine should be running while hosing down the engine bay. Not sure why but...

With the engine running and hot, the water will evaporate or boil away quickly reducing the risk of any water damage. That's my guess anyway. I sprayed down my engine bay last weekend with the engine stone cold after sitting in the driveway all night and all day. I have had no problems to speak of in the last week.

I would definitely cover the alternator and probably any other electrical components that you can easily get to. I think that water is what caused the early demise of my alternator.

In my experience this has not been needed. I had two cars (Ford & Mazda) with about 100K miles on them still with the original alternators. Kept both engines bays clean the whole time I had them. Maybe I'm just lucky.

The stuff I use is made for cleaning motorcycles (including the motor) and it specifically says not to use it on a hot motor. Clean it while it's cold, rinse it off, then give it a little blow dry by taking a short drive.

Just curious, can anyone think of any benefits to keeping an engine bay clean - besides appearance?

Good question. I've done it for many years ... a guy I used to work with did. I thought it was cool. So I started.

Minor work under the hood and your hands stay cleaner. A clean engine will run cooler than a dirty one? Anyone who works on your car will see you care about what goes on under the hood. You are able to see the slightest fluid seepage.

In Michigan it is a good idea in the spring to get all the road salt off. I always clean my motors. I always start with a cold motor. Spray off, I use my power washer on low setting. I have even used a sponge and wiped the under side of the hood and the black plastic parts. I have owned cars well over 200K. Never had water related problem. After the wash I use my air hose to blow most water off. Then start the motor and let it warm up.

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